BreastScreen Queensland mobile service back on the Island

BreastScreen Queensland’s mobile service will be back at Bribie Island Library, Bongaree from June 5 – August 11, offering free breast cancer screening for women aged 40 years and over.

“A breast screen every two years is recommended for women aged 50 to 74 years as the best way to find breast cancer early,” Acting medical director Lisa Hammerton said. “However, less than half of Bribie women in their fifties are taking advantage of this service.”

A lack of time and not prioritising their own wellbeing are two of the major barriers women face in looking after their health.

To make it easier for busy women, there are breast screen appointments from 7.30am so women can book an appointment before work. There will also be appointments up to 5.30pm on some days. It takes less than 30 minutes and no doctor’s referral is needed.

“Our service is fast, free, friendly and female,” Dr Hammerton said. “Women should book ahead to make sure they can get an appointment at a time that best suits them.”

Bookings can be made by calling 13 20 50 or visiting breastscreen.qld.gov.au or scan the QR code for more information.

THE FACTS:

• 75% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 50. Younger women do get breast cancer, but the risk of breast cancer increases dramatically after the age of 50.

• 9 out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have NO family history of the disease. While women with a family history of breast cancer are more at risk, most women diagnosed have no family history of the disease at all.

• A breast screen every two years is the best way to detect breast cancer early, well before you or your doctor can feel anything.